Friday, August 7 Great persecution arose against the congregation that was in Jerusalem.​—Acts 8:1.

[Áine]

Friday, August 7

Great persecution arose against the congregation that was in Jerusalem.—Acts 8:1.

 

Hebrew Christians living in Jerusalem and Judea went through hard times in the years following Jesus’ death. Soon after the Christian congregation was formed, intense persecution arose against it. Then some 20 years later, Christ’s followers faced serious economic hardships, possibly caused by a famine that had previously afflicted the land. (Acts 11:27-30) However, about 61 C.E., Christians were experiencing a time of relative peace compared with what was to come. During that period, they received an inspired letter from the apostle Paul—a letter that would prove to be very timely. The letter to the Hebrews was timely because the peace that the Christians were experiencing would not last. Paul provided practical counsel that would help those Christians to endure the tribulation that they would soon face. w24.09 8 ¶1-2

[DLJBSP]

That reveals a pattern in Jehovah's dealings. He often provides direction before the trial, not during it.

 

The benefit for us is significant. We can view periods of relative peace as opportunities to prepare rather than simply times to relax spiritually. The meetings we attend, the personal study we enjoy, and the counsel we receive may not seem urgent today. But Jehovah sees what lies ahead. He is equipping us now with the faith, endurance, and thinking we will need later.